Knights of the Kitchen Table

Knights of the Kitchen Table calls on elements of Arthurian legend when building the adventures of its main characters. The legend of Arthur and his knights has long been the source of historical debate with no definitive conclusions as to whether Arthur existed or if the tales of his accomplishments and knights are true. Some scholars argue that references made in the Historia Brittonum (History of the Britons) and Annales Cambriae (Welsh Annals) suggest that Arthur was a real Romano-British leader and was instrumental in the victory of the Battle of Badon against the Anglo-Saxons. However, the historical accuracy of both the Historia Brittonum and Annales Cambriae has been questioned, as their versions do not match other historical writings of the time. Additionally, they seem to draw upon one another, only to bolster each other’s claims. Other scholars argue that Arthur was a folkloric hero based on a forgotten deity and only later became associated with real-life events. Regardless, there is little evidence to support that Arthur was ever a king, as texts refer to him strictly as “dux bellorum” (“leader of wars”) or “miles” (“soldier”).

The Arthurian culture of Scieszka’s novel is loosely based on some of the most prominent elements of the legends. Scieszka positions Arthur as king and presents his Knights of the Round Table. The knights were so named because they sat around a perfectly circular table that symbolized how no man—not even the king—was more important than any other. Scieszka also makes mention of elements that were central to conflict within Arthurian legend, such as the fateful love affair between Guenevere and Lancelot. Merlin the Enchanter is also a key figure in Knights of the Kitchen Table; he reflects the magician/advisor role the original figure played for King Arthur. Merlin—as he is known today—was introduced to Arthurian stories by Geoffrey of Monmouth, and he seems to be a combination of British prophets, Myrddin and Ambrosius. Merlin possessed mystical, magical qualities, which Scieszka uses to show the enchanter as a darkly threatening and uncertain character.